Spill the Tea

Cottleville Community Conversations


  • Cottleville’s business landscape is filled with familiar names, but few have their hands in as many ventures as JSAC Holdings LLC, registered under Wade Brewer. This entity is tied to several well-known local businesses, including Blooming Daisy Market Place, Cottleville Cookies & Cream, Plank Road Pizza, and the now-defunct 1798 BBQ. Wade Brewer is also the registered agent for JAAC Holdings LLC entity is tied to Susan Brewer’s Service First Real Estate and a couple of others. 

    At first glance, this sounds like the success story of a dedicated business owner and real estate investor. However, behind the scenes, Brewer and his entities remain entangled in ongoing litigation with the City of Cottleville. Despite claims of deep community ties, their legal battles against the city raise questions about their real priorities.

    Litigation and Power Plays

    Rumors suggest that JSAC Holdings’ attorney recently retired, prompting them to bring in new legal counsel—yet another chapter in their long-standing courtroom disputes. While litigation is sometimes necessary in business, the continuous nature of these legal fights suggests a more aggressive stance. For a couple who claim to love this city, Wade and Susan Brewer seem to enjoy throwing their legal weight around.

    But their influence doesn’t stop at business and legal battles. The Brewers are also strong supporters of Stephen Thompson and Elizabeth Holt, figures whose leadership has drawn criticism.  Thompson has been accused of being deceptive and incompetent—a concerning endorsement for someone who would wield influence in city decisions. Does this mean Wade and Susan are strategically backing politicians who will cater to their interests? 

    Wade Brewer’s Temper: A Hothead with Power

    One thing locals seem to agree on is that Wade Brewer isn’t exactly known for his diplomacy. His temper is legendary, with many describing him as a hothead who doesn’t take well to opposition. This isn’t just speculation—people who have interacted with him in business settings have witnessed his outbursts and aggressive demeanor firsthand. It’s one thing to be passionate about business, but when that passion spills over into bullying and intimidation, it’s a problem.

    Susan Brewer, on the other hand, is no stranger to confrontation herself, with reports of her threatening locals becoming all too common. Perhaps this is why legal battles seem to follow them wherever they go. For two people who think they wield so much influence in Cottleville, their approach to community relations seems more like a scorched-earth strategy than true leadership.

    Public Perception & Reputation

    The Brewer name carries weight in Cottleville, but not always for the right reasons. One online reviewer even called Wade a toxic person to be around, reinforcing the narrative that the Brewers prefer control over collaboration. If their goal is to create a thriving, community-driven Cottleville, their actions certainly suggest otherwise.

    As their lawsuit against the city drags on, the real question is: Are the Brewers truly invested in Cottleville’s future, or are they simply out to protect their own interests—at any cost?

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  • Stephen Thompson: A Pattern of Deception, Contradictions, and Shady Business Dealings

    As Stephen Thompson campaigns for mayor, his past actions suggest he is a man unfit to lead. His deposition in a recent court case reveals a disturbing pattern of dishonesty, contradictions, and financial manipulation, making him a serious liability for the people of Cottleville. If Thompson is willing to misrepresent finances, backtrack on legally binding agreements, and shift blame for his own mistakes, what does that say about his ability to lead with integrity?

    Caught in Contradictions: A Habitual Liar?

    Throughout his deposition, Thompson was repeatedly caught in contradictions—changing his story when it suited him, often within minutes of being pressed. One glaring example is his conflicting statements about the lease agreement:

    • At first, he claimed the lease did not reflect the actual agreement he had with the tenants.

    • Then, when confronted with the contract, he admitted it clearly stated an option to purchase.

    • Finally, he backtracked again, saying he trusted the other party and signed without fully reading it.

    How can voters trust a man who signs legal documents without reading them, then turns around and files lawsuits claiming he was deceived? If Thompson can’t even keep his story straight under oath, how can Cottleville trust him with the responsibilities of public office?

    Shady Financial Dealings: Where Did the Money Go?

    Thompson’s financial history also raises serious ethical and legal concerns. In his testimony, he admitted:

    • He accepted an $11,000 deposit for a rent-to-own deal but later refused to honor the purchase agreement.

    • He claimed he needed money urgently when accepting the deposit—suggesting financial desperation.

    • When the contract was questioned, he tried to argue it had been altered, despite no evidence supporting his claim.

    This is a clear case of financial opportunism: taking money under agreed-upon terms and later trying to rewrite history when it no longer benefits him. Does Cottleville really want a mayor who treats financial agreements like disposable pieces of paper?

    Blame-Shifting and Dodging Responsibility

    Instead of owning up to his mistakes, Thompson has a clear pattern of blaming others—a terrible trait for someone seeking public trust.

    • When asked why a notary was not present when his lease agreement was signed, he claimed ignorance but still sued the other party for alleged fraud.

    • He admitted under oath that he had been paying a sewer bill for years, but later claimed the tenants owed him money for it—even though it was never specified in the contract.

    • When questioned about his financial situation, he deflected, evaded, and refused to take accountability.

    Thompson’s habit of shifting blame and refusing to take responsibility proves he lacks the character and leadership skills needed to serve as mayor.

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  • As Stephen Thompson sets his sights on becoming the next mayor, the people of Cottleville have every reason to scrutinize the integrity of a man whose past is riddled with financial misrepresentation, legal inconsistencies, and ethically dubious business dealings. Thompson’s recent deposition paints a damning picture of a candidate who appears to have engaged in deceptive financial practices, questionable notarization disputes, and a history of breaking his own contracts—all red flags for someone seeking public office.

    Mortgage Misrepresentation: A Potential Federal Crime

    A mayor should be a beacon of honesty, but Thompson’s financial history tells a different story. During his deposition under oath he admitted that he borrowed money to use as a down payment for his home but failed to disclose this to his mortgage lender. In the world of finance, this is called mortgage fraud—a federal offense that carries severe penalties, including potential prison time. When confronted with the possibility that his actions were illegal, his response was shockingly dismissive: “So be it. I was not aware.”

    Ignorance of the law is no excuse, and for someone vying for public trust, this cavalier attitude toward legal compliance is deeply alarming. If Thompson is willing to misrepresent his finances for personal gain, what does that say about how he would handle the city’s budget?

    The Notary Scandal: Did Thompson Falsely Cry Forgery?

    Thompson’s credibility takes another major hit when examining his claims that a rental contract he signed had been fraudulently notarized. He swore in court that the notarization was done without his knowledge, attempting to paint himself as a victim. But the details don’t add up. While he insists he was left out of the process, his lawsuit suggests otherwise.

    Why would he claim a document was forged when he had no concrete proof? Was this a strategic lie to back out of an agreement he no longer found convenient? If Thompson is willing to play fast and loose with legal documents, can the citizens of St. Charles trust him to uphold the law as mayor?

    Inconsistencies and Deception in Contractual Agreements

    Beyond the notary dispute, Thompson’s handling of business dealings raises serious ethical concerns. He signed a lease-to-own agreement, accepted an $11,000 deposit from the tenants, and later attempted to backtrack on the deal.

    Even worse, he later filed a lawsuit claiming the tenants were in violation of the contract, citing a sewer bill they allegedly failed to pay. Yet, under oath, Thompson couldn’t even point to a clause in the contract stating that they were responsible for that bill. When pressed, he dodged and evaded—an ominous preview of the kind of half-truths and mismanagement the city might expect under his leadership.

    The Character Test: Does Cottleville Deserve Better?

    Leadership is about integrity, but Thompson’s past is marred by financial dishonesty, contradictory legal claims, and an inability to take responsibility for his own actions. He has filed a lawsuit based on flimsy evidence, made false claims about financial transactions, and shrugged off serious legal violations as if they were minor inconveniences.

     Cottleville voters deserve a mayor they can trust—someone who respects the law, honors agreements, and demonstrates financial responsibility. Thompson’s record suggests he is the exact opposite: a man who bends the truth, manipulates legal loopholes, and treats ethical concerns as afterthoughts.

    Before casting their votes, residents should ask themselves: If Thompson can’t be trusted with his own finances, how can he be trusted to manage an entire city?

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  • Stephen Thompson’s False Claim

    Stephen Thompson is attempting to rewrite history by falsely asserting that he was the sole initiator and coordinator of Cottleville’s designation as a Purple Heart City. But the facts tell a different story, and we have the proof.

    The Truth Behind Cottleville’s Purple Heart Designation

    Official city records, public statements, and documented proclamations show that the effort to designate Cottleville as a Purple Heart City was spearheaded by:

    ✅ City Administrator Rich Francis, who formally applied on behalf of the city.

    ✅ Mayor Bob Ronkoski, who supported the initiative in honor of his father, James F. Ronkoski, a decorated Vietnam War veteran who was wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart.

    ✅ Sidney “Sid” Staton, Commander of the Missouri Purple Heart Chapter 125, who advised and guided the city on the process.

    In contrast, nowhere in the official city records or proclamations is Stephen Thompson mentioned as playing any meaningful role in this effort.

    Proof That Stephen Thompson is Lying

    • Official Proclamation Signed by Mayor Ronkoski (May 18, 2022): The official City of Cottleville proclamation naming it a Purple Heart City is signed by Mayor Robert Ronkoski and City Clerk Amy Lewis—not Thompson.

    • City’s Public Announcement (May 30, 2022): The City of Cottleville publicly acknowledged Rich Francis, Mayor Ronkoski, and Sidney Staton—not Thompson—as the key figures in securing this honor.

    • Sgt. James Ronkoski’s Heroic Story: The mayor’s father’s military service and Purple Heart award played a major role in the city’s decision to apply for the designation—again, not Thompson’s work.

    • The General Orders from October 5, 1966, detailing the heroism of Sgt. James Ronkoski, further solidify that this effort was deeply personal to the city leadership.

    Why This Matters

    If Stephen Thompson is willing to falsely claim credit for something he had little to no involvement in, how can the people of Cottleville trust him as mayor?

    ✅ Lying about community efforts is a red flag for dishonesty.

    ✅ Exploiting veterans’ honors for political gain is disgusting and disrespectful.

    ✅ The real heroes behind this initiative—Rich Francis, Mayor Ronkoski, and veterans like Sidney Staton and Sgt. Ronkoski—deserve the credit.

    Cottleville Deserves Honest Leadership—Not a Fraud

    The citizens of Cottleville should not stand for stolen credit and false claims. Stephen Thompson is trying to deceive the community into believing he led an initiative that was actually accomplished by others. This is a slap in the face to the veterans and city officials who truly made it happen.

    When you vote, ask yourself:

    ❌ Do you want a leader who fabricates achievements?

    ❌ Do you trust someone who takes credit for others’ work?

    ✅ Or do you want leadership built on integrity, honesty, and genuine service?

    The choice is clear. Reject deception. Reject deception. Reject Thompson

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  • Once a vibrant space for Cottleville residents to engage in meaningful discussion, the Cottleville Forum has taken a dramatic turn under the heavy-handed moderation of Candice Candi Leslie. What was once a diverse and engaging online community has devolved into an authoritarian echo chamber, carefully curated to promote the interests of Stephen Thompson and the Brewers while silencing any dissent.

    Candice, who now acts more like a schoolyard bully than a community leader, has transformed the forum into a one-sided platform where opposing views are met with swift punishment—blocking and banning members who dare to challenge the narrative she pushes. Rather than fostering open conversation, she prefers absolute control, distorting information to manipulate her followers and stoke division within the town.

    Perhaps the most striking revelation is that many of the comments on the forum don’t even come from registered Cottleville voters. Despite this, Candice’s selective moderation creates the illusion of widespread discontent within the city, when in reality, much of it is manufactured by outsiders. Her actions have not only tainted the forum’s reputation but have also created an environment where only a select few voices are allowed to shape the conversation.

    What used to be an enjoyable place to scroll through local discussions has now become a toxic and exclusionary space. The diversity of perspectives that once made the forum a valuable resource is gone, replaced with a narrow, controlled dialogue dictated by Candice’s personal biases. Those who remember the forum in its former state can only look on with disappointment as it continues to shrink into an isolated club for a chosen few.

    At this point, the Cottleville Forum is no longer a reflection of the community—it’s simply Candice’s personal stage, where she plays the role of queen, silencing anyone who refuses to fall in line. It’s not much fun anymore, and many residents have begun to realize that real discussion about Cottleville’s future must take place elsewhere.

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  • Stephen Thompson wants your vote—but does he actually want the job? Sources say he has privately admitted he has no intention of serving a full four-year term. If that’s true, then why is he running? And more importantly, who is really behind his sudden political ambitions?

    Enter JSAC Holdings, LLC, the company registered under Wade Brewer, a name well-known in Cottleville for legal battles against the city. From October 2023 to January 2025, Brewer and JSAC Holdings tied up the mayor and the entire Board of Aldermen in litigation—only to abruptly dismiss the case. Why? Did Brewer suddenly have a change of heart? Or was it more strategic?

    Consider this: Brewer and JSAC Holdings are Stephen Thompson’s biggest financial and strategic backers. Could it be that dropping the lawsuit was a calculated move to avoid a conflict of interest before the election—one that might resurface after the votes are counted? Has Brewer simply dumped his current attorneys in preparation for refiling the case once Thompson is in office?

    The timing is suspicious. Thompson was largely absent from local politics until he suddenly declared his candidacy. Now, his social media presence is in overdrive, with multiple daily Facebook posts—but where was this enthusiasm two years ago? Could it be that he’s merely a convenient pawn in a much bigger game?

    The Real Question for Cottleville Voters:

    When you vote for Stephen Thompson, are you actually electing Wade Brewer and JSAC Holdings? If Thompson is already backed by a group that sued the city, how can voters trust that he’ll put Cottleville’s interests over those of his biggest supporters?

    Cottleville needs a leader with integrity, independence, and dedication—not a candidate using the mayor’s office as a temporary gig or a stepping stone for someone else’s agenda.

    Before you cast your vote, ask yourself: Who will really be in charge if Stephen Thompson wins?

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  • Can Cottleville Trust Stephen Thompson? A Troubling Pattern of Broken Promises

    As Cottleville’s mayoral election approaches, residents must ask themselves a critical question: Can we trust Stephen Thompson to lead our city with integrity and accountability?

    Thompson, who is positioning himself as a responsible and trustworthy candidate, has recently dismissed a court ruling against him as a “misunderstanding.” However, the facts tell a different story—one of broken contracts, legal battles, and financial disputes that raise serious concerns about his honesty and leadership.

    A Court Judgment That Exposes the Truth

    In a recent case decided in St. Charles County Circuit Court (Case No. 2211-CC00711), Thompson was found in breach of contract regarding a real estate agreement. The court ruled that he failed to honor a Lease Agreement with an Option to Purchase, forcing the plaintiffs—Janet and Timothy Mannino—to take legal action to enforce their rights. The judge’s decision was clear: Thompson did not uphold his agreement and was ordered to sell the property while crediting the plaintiffs for their legal costs, rent payments, and other expenses.

    Rather than taking responsibility, Thompson is attempting to downplay the ruling, calling it a misunderstanding—but the facts show otherwise. The court found that he owed tens of thousands of dollars in legal fees, rent, and other expenses due to his failure to honor his commitments. If he is willing to disregard a legal contract, what else will he go back on if elected?

    A Pattern of Broken Promises?

    As more details emerge, it appears this is not an isolated incident. Multiple sources indicate that Thompson has a history of financial disputes, questionable business dealings, and backtracking on agreements. The real question for Cottleville voters is: How many more “misunderstandings” are we going to hear about?

    • If Thompson ignored a legal contract, can we trust him to uphold his commitments to the people of Cottleville?

    • If he is comfortable misleading the public about his legal troubles, what other truths is he hiding?

    • If he dismisses legal rulings as minor inconveniences, what kind of leader will he be when faced with real challenges?

    Cottleville Deserves Better

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  • In a complex legal web unfolding in Cottleville, Steven Thompson’s most prominent supporter is suing the city—using the same law firm that represents two other clients in separate disputes with the local government. One of these high-profile cases involves a controversial proposal to allow apartment developments in Old Town, raising questions about legal strategy and potential conflicts of interest.

    Sources confirm that the Brewers, who are engaged in a lawsuit against the City of Cottleville, are represented by the same legal firm handling the contentious Old Town apartment case. This shared legal representation has sparked speculation about coordinated legal efforts and the broader implications for city policies.

    The overlapping legal battles have led some residents to question whether these cases are independent challenges or part of a larger strategy to influence the city’s development policies. With multiple lawsuits pressing against Cottleville from the same firm, city officials and residents alike are closely watching how these legal disputes will shape the town’s future.

    As the lawsuits progress, transparency and accountability remain key concerns. Who truly stands to benefit from these legal maneuvers, and how might they reshape Cottleville’s landscape?

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  • Stephen Thompson wants to be your next mayor—but how much do we really know about him? A pattern of evasiveness, inconsistencies, and questionable alliances raises serious concerns about his integrity and leadership.

    For starters, Thompson has remained frustratingly vague about his past. His PhD? He bristles at questions about its legitimacy, leading some to wonder if it was earned through a questionable online institution. His record as an alderman is equally murky. Did he mislead voters about his stance on the controversial apartment complex project? Public records suggest he hasn’t been entirely truthful.

    Then, there’s his campaign—built on a foundation of deception. Thompson has been caught using outdated images to manufacture the illusion of broad support. Meanwhile, sources say he is little more than a mouthpiece for the Brewers, the same powerful figures behind JSAC Holdings, who have taken legal action against the City of Cottleville. If Thompson is in their pocket, whose interests will he really serve?

    Adding to the concerns, Thompson appears to be using a biased Facebook group run by Candice to manipulate public perception. Is this the kind of leadership Cottleville needs—someone who hides behind surrogates and dodges scrutiny?

    Cottleville deserves a mayor who is honest, transparent, and independent—not someone who plays fast and loose with the truth while cozying up to those who have worked against the city. If Thompson refuses to come clean now, how can he be trusted to lead?

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